Veteran actress Padmini Kolhapure has joined the long list of Bollywood celebrities expressing grief over the heartbreaking news of Dharmendra’s passing. The legendary actor, loved across generations, left behind a void that the film industry says can never be filled. Among those who remembered him with deep emotion was Padmini Kolhapure, who shared a warm bond with the actor and worked with him during some of the most memorable phases of her career.
Padmini Kolhapure spoke with great sadness, calling Dharmendra not just a superstar but a man with a pure heart, timeless charm and remarkable simplicity. She said that even though he was one of the biggest names in Indian cinema, he always treated everyone with affection and respect, making people around him feel comfortable. According to her, Dharmendra was someone who could instantly brighten the mood on set, whether it was with his sense of humour, his down-to-earth nature, or his gentle way of speaking.
Recalling her time with the legendary actor, Padmini shared that working with Dharmendra never felt like work. Shooting alongside him was always filled with laughter, warmth and genuine care. She remembered how he would often guide younger actors, give them confidence and make sure they felt included. He carried no ego—only kindness. She said that even after years in the industry, he still behaved like a newcomer with gratitude for every role and every audience member who loved him.
Padmini Kolhapure also opened up about some of their cherished off-screen memories. She recalled how Dharmendra would narrate stories from his early days—struggles, dreams and the determination that took him from Punjab to Mumbai where he became the “He-Man” of Bollywood. His journey, she said, was the perfect example of how talent, hard work and humility can take someone to legendary heights.
She described Dharmendra as someone who never changed, no matter how big a star he became. His simplicity remained his hallmark. He loved people, valued relationships and always made time for his coworkers. Padmini said that she admired the way he carried himself—strong on screen, soft in real life, and always extremely respectful of women and younger artists.
Talking about his contribution to Indian cinema, Padmini Kolhapure said that Dharmendra was one of the rare actors who excelled in every genre. Whether it was romance, action, comedy or emotional family dramas, he delivered unforgettable performances. His roles in films like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Phool Aur Patthar and many others continue to be celebrated even today. She said that generations grew up watching his movies, and future generations will continue to discover his charm, proving that true legends never fade.
Padmini also remembered Dharmendra as a family man deeply loved by his children and grandchildren. She expressed her condolences to his entire family, including Hema Malini, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Esha Deol, and said that the entire industry stands with them during this difficult time. His loss, she added, is not just a personal loss for his family but a cultural loss for the whole country.
With her voice heavy with emotion, Padmini Kolhapure said that Dharmendra’s legacy will live forever—not only through his iconic films but also through the lives he touched with his kindness. She said that actors like him are rare, and the film industry may never see someone with his charm, personality and heart again. Even though he is no longer physically present, his work, his warmth and the memories he created will remain alive for decades to come.
As tributes continue to pour in from all corners of the film fraternity, Padmini Kolhapure’s heartfelt words capture the true essence of who Dharmendra was—not just a superstar but a beautiful human being. She concluded by saying that while the world may mourn the loss of an icon, she chooses to remember him with gratitude, admiration and love.
“His legacy will live forever,” she said. “Dharmendra ji was not just an actor, he was an emotion. And emotions never die.”
